Keep these questions in mind as you read the introduction and first chapter of The Dumbest Generation. Please be willing to discuss these in class next week.
1. In your opinion, how true is this statement: "They've been programmed for success, and a preschool-to-college gauntlet of standardized tests, mounting homework, motivational messages, and extracurricular tasks has rewarded or punished them at ever stage"?
2. What do you think of this statement: "These young adults have graduated from high school, entered college, declared a major, and lasted seven semesters, but their in-class and out-of-class punch cards amount to fewer hours than a part-time job"?
3. Why would Bauerlein argue that you minds plateau at age 18?
4. How does your popular culture, digital media, and social networks cut you off from world realities?
5. Do you believe that an anti-intellectual mindset prevails among your peers?
6. Why do young Americans excel at acquiring material possessions but fail at gaining adult skills?
7. What are you thoughts on the long quote on page 37?
8. Find one quote or statistic that you think best represents your generation.
9. Find one quote or statistic that you think does not represent your generation at all.
10. Finally, if you could plead your case to Bauerlein, what would say? That is, how can you convince him of the strengths of your generation?
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